System for distributing the weight of a column section

ABSTRACT

A system for distributing the weight of a column section during lifting by a crane is provided. The system can include a roundness ring disposed about an outer circumference of the column section, the roundness ring configured to provide support to the column section such that the column section maintains a substantially cylindrical shape during movement of the column section; a plurality of shims configured to be wedged between the roundness ring and the outer circumference of the column section to improve the fit between the roundness ring and the column section; and a plurality of lifting lugs, wherein the lifting lug is configured to receive a lifting force from the crane and transfer this lifting force to the roundness ring.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/827,096 filed on May 24, 2013; U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/827,103 filed May 24, 2013; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/921,164 filed Dec. 27, 2013, all of which are hereby incorporatedby reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system used when building airseparation units in a remote location using a mobile manufacturing yard.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Air separation units (ASUs) are typically constructed in fabricationshops and then transported to their installation sites via roads andwaterways. As such, the roads, waterways, and bridge clearances create apractical limit on the sizes of the ASUs. However, the market's need forASUs has grown tremendously, with future projections rising even more.As such, the industry is facing a serious challenge in trying to meetthese needs in a cost effective manner.

In the past, if a user required a larger amount of oxygen than what anASU could typically deliver, the installation would just add additionalASUs until the need was satisfied (e.g., two 2,000 tpd instead of one4,000 tpd). While this setup can provide the necessary flows, it createsadditional problems related to maintenance and costs more than operatingone ASU.

Therefore, there is clearly a need for a manufacturing method and devicethat would allow for very large ASUs to be constructed and delivered toplaces of need, particularly when those places are in remote areas thatare not conducive to large trucks. Areas that are landlocked and awayfrom large navigable rivers also suffer from these aforementioneddrawbacks.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a device and amethod that satisfies at least one of these needs. Certain embodimentsof the present invention relate to the use of a remote manufacturingyard (RMY). The advantages provided include:

-   -   provide manufacturing flexibility and reactivity by allowing        additional capacities to the current manufacturing capacities;    -   serve all parts of the world, specifically landlocked areas        locations; and    -   minimize the logistic efforts and reduce costs associated with        oversized equipment transporting over great distances.

In one embodiment of the invention, a remote manufacturing yardconfigured to build a cryogenic distillation column for use in an airseparation unit (“ASU”) is provided. In one embodiment, the remotemanufacturing yard can include a fabrication facility comprising anenclosure and configured to assemble a packed column section of a lowpressure column, wherein the packed column section preferably has adiameter exceeding five meters. The fabrication facility further canalso include a vertical plate roller configured to vertically roll aplate to create a partial shell; a lifting device configured totransport the partial shell from the vertical plate roller to anassembly table, the assembly table configured to support two or morepartial shells simultaneously; a first weld machine configured to weldthe two or more partial shells together to form a course while keepingthe two or more partial shells stationary; a column section assemblyarea having a second weld machine disposed therein, the column sectionassembly area configured to stack an upper course on a lower course,wherein the second weld machine is configured to weld the upper courseand lower course together to form a column section while keeping theupper course and the lower course stationary; a distributor installationarea configured to receive at least one column section and install adistributor within the column section to form a distributor columnsection; and a packing installation area configured to receive thedistributor column section and install packing within the distributorcolumn section to form a packed column section.

In optional embodiments of the remote manufacturing yard:

-   -   the remote manufacturing yard can also include a column assembly        area having a floor and an absence of an enclosure, the column        assembly area configured to receive a plurality of packed column        sections, wherein the floor is configured to support the weight        of the plurality of packed column sections;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a crane        disposed within the column assembly area, the crane operable to        stack the plurality of packed column sections on each other to        form a column;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a set of rails        configured to mate with a roller system of a movable platform;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a winch        secured to the floor of the column assembly area, the winch        configured to move the movable platform from the fabrication        facility to the column assembly area;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a means for        moving the packed column section from the fabrication facility        to the column assembly area;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a yard        leveling base disposed on the floor, the yard leveling base        configured to receive the plurality of packed column sections        and provide leveling for the plurality of packed column sections        if the floor is uneven;    -   the yard leveling base can have a washer-like shape;    -   the yard leveling base can further include a plurality of        notches at its bottom that are configured to receive a lifting        system to be placed within the notches and raise the level of        the yard leveling base at the notch;    -   the yard leveling base is secured to the floor;    -   the first weld machine is configured to weld in a vertical        direction and the second welding machine is configured to weld        in a horizontal direction;    -   the fabrication facility can also include a dressing area        configured to receive the course from the first weld machine,        the dressing area having inner scaffolding and outer scaffolding        configured to allow a user access to the inner and outer surface        of the course;    -   the dressing area is configured to receive the course while the        inner scaffolding and outer scaffolding are already erected;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a course        lifting device configured to transport the course to the        dressing area, wherein the course lifting device can include a        plurality of support arms each having a plate clamp attached        thereto and a connector configured to accept a connection from        an overhead crane such that the course lifting device, in        conjunction with the overhead crane, is operable to move the        course about the fabrication facility;    -   wherein the plate clamp is configured to be movable about the        length of the support arm, such that the course lifting device        is operable to move courses having differing diameters;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a plate        storage area; a plate loading area; and a means for transporting        the plate from the storage area to the plate loading area;    -   wherein the means for transporting the plate to the plate        loading area comprise a plate lifting device configured to lift        the plate and an overhead crane configured to support and move        the plate lifting device;    -   wherein the remote manufacturing yard can also include a packing        fabrication area for creating packing, the packing fabrication        area comprising: a press module disposed on a press module skid;        and a washing system disposed on a washing system skid;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a packing        assembly area configured to receive packing from the packing        fabrication area, the packing assembly area comprising a working        table configured to allow for assembly of a packing assembly;    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a packing        lifting device configured to lift and move the packing assembly        from the working table to a packing pallet;    -   wherein the packing lifting device can include a central member,        a plurality of lifting arms extending outward from the central        member, and connector clips disposed on each lifting arm, the        connector clips configured to engage with an adapter installed        on a packing band, wherein the packing band is disposed about        the circumference of the level of packing and is configured to        keep the level of packing substantially circular.    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a trailer and        a packing pallet configured to support a plurality of packing        assemblies, wherein the trailer is operable to raise the packing        pallet off the ground and support the weight of the packing        pallet such that the packing pallet is movable about the remote        manufacturing yard;    -   wherein the fabrication facility can include more than one        building; and/or    -   the remote manufacturing yard can further include a cleaning        station configured to allow a user access to the inner surface        of the column section, the cleaning station comprising: a        cleaning station support configured to provide clearance        underneath the column section; a means for raising and lowering        the user about the inside of the column section.

In one embodiment of the invention, a method for fabricating cryogenicdistillation columns in a remote manufacturing yard for use in an airseparation unit (ASU) is provided. In one embodiment, the method caninclude the steps of: forming a first course, wherein the step offorming a first course can include the steps of: (a) obtaining a firstplate; (b) rolling the first plate using a vertical plate roller suchthat the first plate is vertically rolled to create a first partialshell; (c) moving the first partial shell to an assembly table that isconfigured to support two or more partial shells simultaneously; (d)obtaining a second plate; (e) rolling the second plate using thevertical plate roller such that the second plate is vertically rolled tocreate a second partial shell; (f) moving the second partial shell tothe assembly table that is configured to support two or more half shellssimultaneously; and (g) arranging the first partial shell with thesecond partial shell and welding the first partial shell to the secondpartial shell using a first weld machine to form the first course whileboth the first partial shell and the second partial shell arestationary; forming a second course, wherein the step of forming asecond course can include repeating steps (a)-(g) to form the secondcourse; forming a packed column section, wherein the step of forming thepacked column section can include the steps of: fitting and tacking thefirst course with the second course and welding the first course to thesecond course using a second weld machine to form a first columnsection; (i) installing a distributor within the first column section toform a distributor column section; (j) installing packing within thedistributor column section and above the distributor to form a packedcolumn section; repeating steps (a)-(j) to form a plurality of packedcolumn sections; and combining the plurality of packed column sectionsto form a column.

In optional embodiments of the method for fabricating cryogenicdistillation columns in a remote manufacturing yard:

-   -   the step of stacking the plurality of packed column sections to        form the column is done within a column assembly area comprising        a floor and an absence of an enclosure, the column assembly area        configured to receive the plurality of packed column sections,        wherein the floor is configured to support at least the weight        of the plurality of packed column sections;    -   the column assembly area can also include a crane disposed        within the column assembly area, the crane operable to stack the        plurality of packed column sections on each other to form a        column;    -   the floor is substantially level;    -   the method can also include the step of moving a packed column        section to the column assembly area using a combination of a set        of rails configured to mate with a roller system of a movable        platform and a means for moving the movable platform;    -   the means for moving the movable platform are selected from the        group consisting of a winch, a forklift, and combinations        thereof;    -   the means for moving the movable platform can include a winch,        wherein the winch is secured to the floor of the column assembly        area, the winch configured to move the movable platform to the        column assembly area;    -   the method can also include the step of leveling the column in        the column assembly area using a yard leveling base;    -   the yard leveling base is configured to allow for a packed        column section of a column to be placed on a top surface of the        yard leveling base, the yard leveling base further comprising a        bottom surface configured to maintain substantial contact with        the ground of a remote manufacturing yard, wherein the yard        leveling base is adapted to adjust the level of the top surface        of the yard leveling base to account for unevenness or slope of        the ground of the remote manufacturing yard;    -   the method can also include the step of moving the first course        to a dressing area using a course lifting device;    -   the method can also include the step of installing a roundness        ring about the circumference of the first course, the roundness        ring configured to provide support to the first course such that        the first course maintains a substantially cylindrical shape;    -   the method can also include the step of installing a plurality        of lifting lugs to the roundness ring, the lifting lugs        configured to allow the first course to be picked up by a crane        in a column assembly area;    -   steps a-j are conducted in a fabrication facility having an        enclosure;    -   the fabrication facility is a clean facility;    -   the method can also include the step of creating packing in a        packing creation area for creating packing, the packing creation        area comprising: a press module disposed on a press module skid;        and a washing system disposed on a washing system skid;    -   step (j) can also include installing the packing in loose        packing strips;    -   step (j) can also include installing a block of packing strips        at a time, wherein the block of packing strips is comprised of        at least 5 packing strips;    -   the method can also include the step of creating a vaporizer        shell that is configured to house a vaporizer, wherein the step        of forming the vaporizer shell can include repeating the steps        of: forming the first course, forming the second course, and        step (h);    -   a backing strip is used during step (h);    -   the method can also include the step of creating draining holes        in the backing strip, wherein the drainage holes are configured        to allow liquid that falls between the backing strip and the        vaporizer shell to drain through the drainage holes during        operation;    -   the drainage holes are round; and/or    -   the method can also include of improving the curvature of the        first course using a forming device.

In one embodiment of the invention, a method for fabricating adistillation column in a remote location away from a permanentmanufacturing facility is provided. In one embodiment, the method caninclude the steps of: forming a plurality of column sections each havinga diameter D, each column section comprising a plurality of courses thathave been horizontally welded together, wherein each course is comprisedof two or more partial shells that have been vertically welded together,wherein each of the two or more partial shells was created by verticallyrolling a rectangular plate having a length of at least

$\left( {\frac{1}{N}{\pi \cdot D}} \right),$

wherein N is the number of partial shells used to form the course;installing a distributor and packing in each column section to form aplurality of packed column sections; and stacking the plurality ofpacked column sections to form a column.

In optional embodiments of the method for fabricating cryogenicdistillation columns in a remote location away from a permanentmanufacturing facility:

-   -   the step of stacking the plurality of packed column sections to        form the column is done within a column assembly area comprising        a floor and an absence of an enclosure, the column assembly area        configured to receive a plurality of packed column sections,        wherein the floor is configured to support at least 40 tons;    -   the column assembly area can also include a crane disposed        within the column assembly area, the crane operable to stack the        plurality of packed column sections on each other to form a        column;    -   the floor is substantially level;    -   the diameter of the first course exceeds 4.5 meters; and/or    -   the diameter of the first course exceeds a length which can be        transported by available roads.

In another aspect of the invention, an assembly table for use in aremote manufacturing yard is provided. In one embodiment, the assemblytable is configured to be collapsible thereby allowing for a reducedfootprint during transportation. In one embodiment, the assembly tablecan include a central support base; a plurality of arms attached to thecentral support base; a secondary support member attached to each armconfigured to provide support for and give height to the assembly tablewhen in use; and a centering guide attached to each arm, the centeringguide configured to releasably receive a bottom portion of a partialshell, the centering guide located at a predetermined location of itsown arm.

In optional aspects of the assembly table:

-   -   each arm extends radially outward from the central support base;    -   each arm is detachably connected to the central support base;    -   each secondary support member is detachably connected to its        respective arm;    -   each arm is pivotally connected to the central support base;    -   each secondary support member is pivotally connected to its        respective arm;    -   each arm is movable between an open position and a closed        position;    -   the open position is substantially perpendicular to the        longitudinal axis of the central support base;    -   the closed position is substantially parallel to the        longitudinal axis of the central support base;    -   the secondary support member extends downward to the ground when        the arm is pivoted to an open position;    -   each centering guide is welded to its respective arm;    -   each centering guide is movable about the length its respective        arm, such that the centering guide may accommodate partial        shells of varying diameters;    -   each centering guide is slidably attached to its respective arm,        such that the centering guide may be moved about the length of        the arm in order to accommodate partial shells of varying        diameters;    -   the movement of one centering guide causes the remaining        centering guides to move equally;    -   each centering guide can include a tapered opening configured to        guide a partial shell into position;    -   each secondary support member is attached its respective arm at        a distal location from the central support base;    -   each secondary support member can include an extendable length,        such that each secondary support member can be extended        individually to provide leveling on uneven surfaces;    -   the central support base is configured to be bolted to the        ground when in use;    -   the central support base is substantially cylindrical;    -   the assembly table is configured to support the weight of a        scaffolding assembly; and/or    -   the assembly table can include means for attaching a scaffolding        assembly.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a scaffolding assemblyconfigured for use with an assembly table is provided. In oneembodiment, the scaffolding assembly can include an inner scaffoldingand an outer scaffolding, wherein the inner scaffolding and the outerscaffolding each include: a plurality of main posts having a lower endand an upper end; an extendible arm connected to each of the main posts,wherein the extendible arm is configured to extend substantiallyperpendicular from the main post; and a tertiary scaffolding supportconnected to the extendible arm and the main post, the tertiary supportconfigured to transfer at least some of the force from the extendiblearm to the main post, wherein the scaffolding assembly is configured toattach to the assembly table, such that the scaffolding assemblyreceives support from the assembly table.

In optional aspects of the scaffolding assembly:

-   -   the extendible arm is configured to move between a first        position and a second position along a substantially horizontal        plane;    -   the scaffolding assembly is configured to attach to different        locations of the assembly table;    -   the scaffolding assembly can also include a secondary        scaffolding support connected with the lower end of each of the        main posts and a secondary support member of the assembly table        such that the scaffolding receives structural support from the        assembly table;    -   the scaffolding assembly can also include a secondary post        connected to the tertiary support and extending upwards above        the extendible arm;    -   the scaffolding assembly is configured to accommodate courses of        varying diameters;    -   the scaffolding assembly is configured such that when the        extendible arms of the inner scaffolding and the extendible arms        of the outer scaffolding are fully extended, a gap exists        between the ends of the extendible arms, wherein the gap is        sufficiently large such that a course can be inserted or removed        within the gap without touching the scaffolding;    -   the extendible arms are configured to lock in at various        extension lengths such that the scaffolding assembly can        accommodate courses of various diameters;    -   wherein the secondary scaffolding support is configured to        adjust to various extension lengths such that the scaffolding        assembly can accommodate courses of various diameters;    -   the scaffolding assembly can also include links disposed on each        of the secondary posts, the links configured to secure handrails        to the plurality of second posts;    -   the main posts are secured to the floor;    -   the scaffolding assembly can also include a walkway supported by        the extendible arms;    -   wherein the walkway can include a first portion and a second        portion, wherein the first portion is secured to the extendible        arms and the second portion is supported by the extendible arms;        and/or    -   wherein the height of the main posts is below a threshold level,        such that the scaffolding assembly is configured to allow for a        course to be moved in and out of the scaffolding assembly while        the scaffolding assembly is assembled.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a scaffolding assemblyconfigured for use with an assembly table is provided. In oneembodiment, the assembly table is configured to be collapsible to allowfor reduced footprint during transportation, the assembly tableincluding a central support base; a plurality of arms attached to thecentral support base; a secondary support member attached to each armfor providing support for and giving height to the assembly table whenin use; and a centering guide attached to each arm, the centering guideconfigured to releasably receive a bottom portion of a course, thescaffolding assembly having an inner scaffolding and an outerscaffolding, wherein the inner scaffolding and the outer scaffoldingeach can include a plurality of main posts having a lower end and anupper end; a secondary scaffolding support connected with the lower endof each of the main posts and a second support member of the assemblytable such that the scaffolding receives structural support from theassembly table; an extendible arm connected with the upper end of eachof the main posts, wherein the extendible arm is configured to extendsubstantially perpendicular from the main post between a first positionand a second position; a tertiary scaffolding support connected to theextendible arm and the main post, the tertiary support configured totransfer some of the force from the extendible arm to the main post; anda secondary post connected to the tertiary support and extending upwardsabove the extendible arm, wherein the scaffolding is configured toaccommodate courses of varying diameters.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a trolley for supporting theplate during vertical rolling of the plate is provided. In oneembodiment, the trolley can include a support body configured to providesupport for the trolley; a plurality of wheels configured to allow thetrolley to move across a floor; a lifting arm supported by the supportbody, wherein the lifting arm is movable about a first position and asecond position; a pump handle configured to raise the lifting armbetween the first position and the second position; and a plate holderconfigured to move with the lifting arm and hold the plate in placerelative to the trolley.

In optional aspects of the trolley:

-   -   the plate holder can also include a toggle clamp configured to        increase the force that the plate holder applies to the plate;    -   the plate holder can also include a toggle clamp and a plate        clamp, wherein the toggle clamp is configured to move the plate        clamp such that the force applied by the plate holder to the        plate is increased;    -   the trolley can also include a support bracket rotatably        supported by the lifting arm, wherein the support bracket        connects the plate holder and the lifting arm, such that the        support bracket is configured to allow the plate holder to        remain in substantially the same position as the lifting arm        moves between the first position and the second position;    -   the trolley can also include a suspension, the suspension        disposed between the plurality of wheels and the support body,        wherein the suspension is configured to provide stability to the        support body when the trolley is moving across an uneven floor;    -   the first position is substantially flat;    -   the angle produced by the lifting arm and the support body when        the lifting arm is in the second position is less than 90°;    -   the plurality of wheels are configured to allow for 360° of        movement; and/or    -   the trolley can also include a release configured to        controllably lower the lifting arm towards the first position.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for vertically rollinga plate is provided. In one embodiment, the method can include the stepsof obtaining a first trolley; positioning the plate in a verticalposition; moving the first trolley beneath the plate; adjusting alifting arm of the first trolley such that a plate holder of the firsttrolley is in a position that is conducive to accepting the plate;releasably securing the plate in place with the first trolley such thatthe first trolley moves in unison with the plate; obtaining a secondtrolley; moving the second trolley beneath the plate; adjusting alifting arm of the second trolley such that a plate holder of the secondtrolley is in a position that is conducive to accepting the plate;releasably securing the plate in place with the second trolley such thatthe second trolley moves in unison with the plate; and introducing theplate into a vertical rolling machine and rolling the plate to produce arolled shell.

In optional aspects of the method for vertically rolling the plate:

-   -   The method for vertically rolling the plate can also include the        step of releasing the plate from the first trolley anytime after        the first trolley is no longer needed to provide support and        before the first trolley interferes with the vertical rolling        machine;    -   prior to the step of introducing the plate into the vertical        rolling machine, the lifting arm of the first and second trolley        is adjusted such that the plate is approximately centered in the        vertical rolling machine during rolling;    -   using a third trolley to provide support for a portion of the        plate after the plate has been partially rolled;    -   the third trolley is either the first trolley after the plate        has been released from the first trolley or another trolley;    -   the first trolley is the trolley as described anywhere herein;    -   the plate holder can also include a toggle clamp, wherein the        toggle clamp is configured to move the plate clamp such that the        force applied by the plate holder to the plate is increased;    -   the first position is substantially flat;    -   the angle produced by the lifting arm and the support body when        the lifting arm is in the second position is less than 90°;    -   the plurality of wheels are configured to allow for 360° of        movement;    -   the first trolley can also include a release configured        controllably lower the lifting arm towards the first position;    -   the first trolley can also include a support bracket rotatably        supported by the lifting arm, wherein the support bracket        connects the plate holder and the lifting arm, such that the        support bracket is configured to allow the plate holder to        remain in substantially the same position as the lifting arm        moves between the first position and the second position; and/or    -   the first trolley can also include a suspension, the suspension        disposed between the plurality of wheels and the support body,        wherein the suspension is configured to provide stability to the        support body when the trolley is moving across an uneven floor.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for moving a packedcolumn section about a remote manufacturing yard is provided. In oneembodiment, the packed column section can include a first course, asecond course, packing disposed within the first course and secondcourse, and a plurality of distributors. In one embodiment, the methodcan include the steps of placing the packed column section on top of amovable platform, the movable platform configured to support anddistribute the weight of the packed column section; and moving thepacked column section from a first point to a second point, the secondpoint being in an open area adapted for stacking a plurality of packedcolumn sections on top of each other to form a column.

In optional aspects of the method for moving the packed column sectionabout the remote manufacturing yard:

-   -   the movable platform is adjustable such that the movable        platform can accommodate packed column sections of varying        diameters;    -   the movable platform can also include means for accommodating        packed column sections of varying diameters;    -   the movable platform can also include a base frame, table posts,        and a movable beam, the table posts extending upwards, the        movable beam connected to the base frame and the table posts,        the movable beam adapted to provide lateral stability to the        table posts via a brace;    -   wherein the movable beam and table posts are configured to be        movable about the base frame, such that the movable platform can        accommodate packed column sections of varying diameters;    -   the movable platform can also include a support base secured to        the top of the table posts;    -   the table posts are configured to mate with slots of the support        base to provide an increase in stability;    -   the table posts are configured to elevate the support base off        the ground, thereby providing a user access to an underside of        the packed column section;    -   the support base is made from structural carbon steel;    -   the support base can include a ring-like shape;    -   the support base is configured to further distribute the weight        of the packed column section across the movable platform;    -   the packed column section is secured to the support base;    -   the packed column section is secured to the support base using a        welding stiffener;    -   wherein the step of moving the packed column section from the        first point to the second point further includes the steps of        connecting the movable platform to a winch via a cable, and        using the winch to apply a pulling force to move the packed        column section to the second point;    -   the movable platform can also include a plurality of a multi-ton        rollers that are configured to mate with a set of rails disposed        on the ground, such that the movable platform travels in a        substantially straight path while being moved from the first        point to the second point;    -   the set of rails are disposed on the top surface of the ground;        and/or    -   the set of rails are disposed in a recess in the ground, such        that the rails do not protrude above the top surface of the        ground.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a movable platform for moving apacked column section about a remote manufacturing yard is provided. Inone embodiment, the packed column section can include a first course, asecond course, packing disposed within the first course and secondcourse, and a distributor, the movable platform configured to supportand distribute the weight of the packed column section. In oneembodiment, the movable platform can include a base frame, table posts,and a movable beam, wherein the movable beam and table posts areconfigured to be movable about the base frame, such that the movableplatform can accommodate packed column sections of varying diameters.

In optional aspects of the movable platform:

-   -   the table posts configured to mate with slots of a support base        to provide an increase in stability;    -   the table posts extend upward from the base frame and are        configured to elevate the support base off the ground, thereby        giving a user access to an underside of the packed column        section;    -   the support base can include an opening that is configured to        give a user access to an underside of a packed column section        when the packed column section is on top of the support base;        and/or    -   the movable platform can also include a plurality of a multi-ton        rollers that are configured to mate with a set of rails disposed        on the ground, such that the movable platform travels in a        substantially straight path while being moved from the first        point to the second point.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a system for moving heavyobjects about a manufacturing yard is provided. In one embodiment, thesystem can include a pair of rails disposed on the ground of themanufacturing yard; a plurality of multi-ton rollers configured to matewith the rails, each multi-ton roller configured to be attached to amovable platform which is configured to accept a packed column section;and a winch disposed between the pair of rails and secured to the groundof the manufacturing yard, the winch having a spool of cable with oneend configured to be attached to the movable platform, the winchconfigured to apply a force to cause the movable platform to travelabout a length of the pair of rails.

In optional aspects of the system for moving heavy objects about themanufacturing yard:

-   -   each multi-ton roller can also include a body frame extending        along a longitudinal axis; a top plate secured to the body        frame, the top plate configured to attach to the movable        platform; and a plurality of individual rollers movable about a        load-bearing member and located within the body frame, the        plurality of individual rollers configured to support the body        frame and facilitate longitudinal movement of the body frame        along the length of the rail;    -   each multi-ton roller can also include a set of guides that are        configured to prevent side to side movement of the multi-ton        roller when the multi-ton roller is mated with the rail;    -   wherein the pair of rails protrude above the ground;    -   wherein the pair of rails are sunk into the ground such that the        head of the rail does not protrude above the surface of the        ground;    -   the system can also include a movable platform for moving a        packed column section about a remote manufacturing yard, the        packed column section comprising a first course, a second        course, packing disposed within the first course and second        course, and a distributor, the movable platform configured to        support and distribute the weight of the packed column section,        the movable platform comprising a base frame, table posts, and a        movable beam, wherein the movable beam and table posts are        configured to be movable about the base frame, such that the        movable platform can accommodate packed column sections of        varying diameters;    -   the table posts are configured to mate with slots of a support        base to provide an increase in stability;    -   the table posts extend upward from the base frame and are        configured to elevate the support base off the ground, thereby        giving a user access to an underside of the packed column        section; and/or    -   the support base can also include an opening that is configured        to give a user access to an underside of a packed column section        when the packed column section is on top of the support base.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a system for distributing theweight of a column section during lifting by a crane is provided. In oneembodiment, the system can include a roundness ring disposed about anouter circumference of the column section, the roundness ring configuredto provide support to the column section such that the column sectionmaintains a substantially cylindrical shape during movement of thecolumn section; a plurality of shims configured to be wedged between theroundness ring and the outer circumference of the column section toimprove the fit between the roundness ring and the column section; and aplurality of lifting lugs, wherein the lifting lug is configured toreceive a lifting force from the crane and transfer this lifting forceto the roundness ring.

In optional aspects of the system for distributing the weight of thecolumn section during lifting by the crane:

-   -   the system for distributing the weight of the column section can        also include a plurality of reinforcement pads, wherein each        reinforcement pad is attached to the outer surface of the column        section, wherein at least a portion of the lifting lug is        attached to the reinforcement pad;    -   the reinforcement pad is configured to prevent shearing of the        column section during lifting;    -   the reinforcement pad is attached to the column section by        welding;    -   the reinforcement pad is disposed above and below the roundness        ring;    -   the reinforcement pad is disposed only below the roundness ring;    -   each lifting lug is attached to the roundness ring;    -   the roundness ring is configured to be dismantled, such that the        roundness ring can be removed from the column section and reused        for a second column section;    -   the roundness ring is comprised of multiple segments bolted        together;    -   the shims are generally L-shaped;    -   the shims are configured to have different widths such that the        shims are adapted for different shell thicknesses;    -   each lifting lug can include an opening that is configured to        receive the lifting force from the crane;    -   each lifting lug is bolted to the roundness ring;    -   the plurality of lifting lugs are spaced evenly about the        roundness ring;    -   each lifting lug can also include a top body and a bottom body,        the top body configured to be disposed above the roundness ring,        the bottom body configured to be disposed below the roundness        ring, wherein the lifting lug is configured to be secured to the        roundness ring by bolting the top body to the bottom body;    -   the top body of the lifting lug is configured to be removed from        the roundness ring without removal of the bottom body;    -   the system for distributing the weight of the column section can        also include an upper portion extending from the top body of the        lifting lug, the upper portion having a substantially        semi-circular shape at the top, the upper portion having a        reinforced opening configured to receive the lifting force from        the crane; and/or    -   the reinforced opening is configured to be operably connected        with a Crosby shackle.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a hanging platform assembly foruse in accessing a column section is provided. In one embodiment, thehanging platform assembly can include a walkway configured to allow auser to walk about the hanging platform; a backing extending verticallyfrom the walkway at a point distal from the stacked column; an angledpost extending at an angle down and away from the walkway; a foot paddisposed on the end of the angle post, the foot pad configured to restagainst the outer surface of the stacked column; a vertical postconnected the walkway and the angled post; and an adapter disposed onthe walkway at a point proximal the outer surface of the stacked column,wherein the adapter is configured to mate with a clip attached to thecolumn section, such that when a downward force is applied to thewalkway, the clip is configured to prevent the walkway from falling tothe ground.

In optional aspects of the hanging platform assembly:

-   -   the clip is generally v-shaped;    -   the clip is welded onto the stacked column;    -   the hanging platform assembly can also include a backing strip        attached to the outer surface of the column section, wherein the        clip is welded onto the backing strip;    -   the hanging platform assembly can also include a clip pad        attached to the outer surface of the column section, wherein the        clip is welded onto the clip pad;    -   the foot pad is configured to disperse the weight of the hanging        platform against the stacked column;    -   the hanging platform assembly can also include a vertical        extension extending from the backing, the vertical extension        having a plurality of arms extending outwards from the top of        the vertical extension, wherein the plurality of arms are        configured to support an external weather shelter as described        herein;    -   the plurality of arms are substantially parallel with an outer        edge of the walkway;    -   the hanging platform assembly is configured to support the        weight of a user without any portion of the hanging platform        touching the ground;    -   the hanging platform assembly can also include handrails        connected to the backing;    -   the handrails are configured to be adjustable in length, such        that the platform can adjust for column sections having varying        diameters; and/or    -   the handrails are telescopic.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for accessing a stackedcolumn using any hanging platform assembly as described herein isprovided. In one embodiment, the method can include the steps ofattaching a set of the clips to the stacked column; and installing thehanging platform assembly to the stacked column by inserting the adapterinto a gap formed between the clip and the stacked column.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a method of installing avaporizer in a remote manufacturing yard is provided. In one embodiment,the method can include the steps of obtaining a lower stage and an upperstage of a vaporizer; obtaining a first column section and a secondcolumn section; installing the lower stage to a bottom head such thatthe lower stage is in fluid communication with an inner volume of thebottom head; installing the first column section over and around thelower stage and fitting and welding a bottom of the first column sectionto the bottom head; installing the upper stage; and installing thesecond column section and fitting and welding a bottom of the secondcourse to the first course.

In optional aspects of the method of installing the vaporizer in theremote manufacturing yard:

-   -   the step of obtaining a first column section further can include        the steps of: (a) obtaining a first plate; (b) rolling the first        plate using a vertical plate roller such that the first plate is        vertically rolled to create a first partial shell; (c) moving        the first partial shell to an assembly table that is configured        to support two or more partial shells simultaneously; (d)        obtaining a second plate; (e) rolling the second plate using the        vertical plate roller such that the second plate is vertically        rolled to create a second partial shell; (f) moving the second        partial shell to the assembly table that is configured to        support two or more partial shells simultaneously; and (g)        arranging the first partial shell with the second partial shell        and welding the first partial shell to the second partial shell        using a first weld machine to form the first course.    -   the step of obtaining a second column section can also include        repeating steps (a)-(g);    -   the vaporizer was previously manufactured and assembled in a        main facility away from the remote manufacturing yard;    -   the step of obtaining a lower stage and an upper stage of a        vaporizer can also include the steps of manufacturing a fully        assembled vaporizer in a facility away from the remote        manufacturing yard; splitting the fully assembled vaporizer into        at least two sections, the at least two sections comprising a        lower stage and an upper stage, wherein the lower stage and the        upper stage are configured to be transportable via roads; and        transporting the at least two sections from a main facility to        the remote manufacturing yard;    -   the lower stage can include a four core assembly;    -   the upper stage can include a four core assembly;    -   the step of installing the upper stage can include welding        piping interconnections between the upper stage and the bottom        head, such that the upper stage is in fluid communication with        the inner volume of the bottom head;    -   a backing strip is used during the step of installing the second        column section over and around the lower stage and fitting and        welding the bottom of the second column section to the first        column section;    -   the method of installing the vaporizer can also include the step        of creating draining holes in the backing strip, wherein the        drainage holes are configured to allow liquid that falls between        the backing strip and the column section to drain through the        drainage holes during operation;    -   the drainage holes are round;    -   a backing strip is used during the step of installing the first        column section over and around the lower stage and fitting and        welding the bottom of the first column section to the bottom        head; and/or    -   the step of obtaining a first column section and a second column        section can further include the steps of: forming a plurality of        column sections comprising the first column section and the        second column section, each column section having a diameter D,        each column section comprising a plurality of courses that have        been horizontally welded together, wherein each course is        comprised of two or more partial shells that have been        vertically welded together, wherein each of the two or more        partial shells was created by vertically rolling a rectangular        plate having a length of at least

$\left( {\frac{1}{N}{\pi \cdot D}} \right),$

wherein N is the number of partial shells used to form the course.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a yard leveling base forleveling a column during assembly is provided. In one embodiment, theyard leveling base is configured to allow for a packed column section ofa column to be placed on a top surface of the yard leveling base, theyard leveling base can further include a bottom surface configured tomaintain substantial contact with the ground of a remote manufacturingyard, wherein the yard leveling base is adapted to adjust the level ofthe top surface of the yard leveling base to account for unevenness orslope of the ground of the remote manufacturing yard.

In optional aspects of the yard leveling base:

-   -   the bottom surface can include a plurality of notches disposed        therein, wherein each notch is configured to allow access for a        lifting system to the notch such that the lifting system can        raise an area of the top surface of the yard leveling base        directly above the notch;    -   the lifting system is selected from the group consisting of a        hydraulic lift, a screw lift, an air lift, and combinations        thereof;    -   the yard leveling base can also include a plurality of notches        at its bottom that are configured to receive a lifting system to        be placed within the notches and raise the level of the yard        leveling base at the notch;    -   the lifting system is selected from the group consisting of a        hydraulic lift, a screw lift, an air lift, and combinations        thereof;    -   the yard leveling base can include a washer-like shape;    -   the yard leveling base can include a nut-like shape;    -   the yard leveling base can also include an inner diameter, an        outer diameter, and a height;    -   the yard leveling base is secured to the floor, preferably using        a clamp system;    -   the yard leveling base is configured to accommodate a weight of        100 metric tons; and/or    -   the yard leveling base can also include centering guides        disposed on the top surface of the yard leveling base, the        centering guides configured to center the packed column on top        of the yard leveling base.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for leveling a columnduring assembly in a remote manufacturing yard is provided. In oneembodiment, the method can include the steps of installing a yardleveling base as claimed in claim 194 on the ground of the remotemanufacturing yard; measuring the levelness of a top surface of the yardleveling base; adjusting the yard leveling base until the top surface ofthe yard leveling base is substantially level; and placing a packedcolumn section of a column onto a top surface of the yard leveling base.

In optional aspects of the method for leveling the column duringassembly in the remote manufacturing yard:

-   -   the method for leveling the column can also include the step of        securing the yard leveling base to the ground, preferably using        a clamp system, more preferably using anchor bolts;    -   the bottom surface of the yard leveling base can include a        plurality of notches disposed therein, wherein the notches are        configured to allow a lifting system access to the notch such        that the lifting system can raise a portion of the top surface        of the yard leveling base;    -   the step of adjusting the yard leveling base can also include        the steps of inserting a lifting system into the notch located        under a portion of the top surface needing adjustment; and        activating the lifting system to cause the top surface to raise;    -   the yard leveling base can have a washer-like shape;    -   the yard leveling base can have a nut-like shape;    -   the yard leveling base can have an inner diameter, an outer        diameter, and a height;    -   the method for leveling the column can also include the step of        adjusting the yard leveling base after the step of placing a        packed column section of a column onto the top surface of the        yard leveling base;    -   a plumb line system is used to measure the levelness of the yard        leveling base during the step of adjusting the yard leveling        base after the step of placing a packed column section of a        column onto the top surface of the yard leveling base; and/or    -   adjusting the yard leveling base can also include the steps of        raising a portion of the yard leveling base with a lifting        system and putting a shim underneath the yard leveling base.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for installing packingin a remote manufacturing yard is provided. In one embodiment, themethod can include the steps of manufacturing structured packing in afacility away from the remote manufacturing yard; splitting a level ofthe structured packing into a plurality of sections and then placingeach section into a separate box for transport, wherein each box caninclude an inner profile configured to match its section of packing soas to reduce damage to the packing during transport; transporting thebox to the remote manufacturing yard; and installing the packing into acolumn section.

In optional aspects of the method for installing the packing in theremote manufacturing yard:

-   -   if the length of a strip of structured packing exceeds a        threshold length, the strip of structured packing is placed into        a box having a length that is less than the threshold length,        such that the strip of structured packing forms a wave-like        shape within the box, thereby reducing the apparent length of        the strip of structured packing;    -   the inner profile of the box matches the wave-like shape of the        strip of structured packing;    -   the inner profile of the box matches a profile of the        circumference of the column section the structured packing is        installed;    -   each box is configured to fit inside the column section at any        angle;    -   the length of each box is less than the diameter of the column        section;    -   the step of installing the packing into the column section can        also include the steps of removing the structured packing of        each box for a level of structured packing; organizing said        structured packing on a working table to form a packing        assembly; and installing a perimeter band around the perimeter        of the packing assembly, wherein the perimeter band is        configured to hold the packing assembly together in a        substantially circular shape during installation of the packing        into the column section;    -   the perimeter band can also include a seal that is configured to        direct fluid flowing along the inner wall of the column section        toward the packing while the column section is in operation;    -   the step of installing the packing into the column section can        also include the steps of: a) introducing the box into the inner        area of the column section; and b) removing the structured        packing from the box and installing said structured packing into        the column section; and c) repeating steps a) to b) to form the        packed column section; and/or    -   each section includes individual packing strips, wherein the        step of splitting the level of the structured packing into a        plurality of sections and then placing each section into a        separate box for transport further includes the step of        arranging the individual packing strips in the box in an        alternating fashion by flipping every other packing strip such        that the profiles of successive packing strips match, thereby        resulting in a lowered packed height.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a weather shelter for providingprotection during assembly of a column at a remote manufacturing yard isprovided. In one embodiment, the weather shelter can include a framemounted to a hanging platform, and extending upwards from the hangingplatform, the hanging platform supported by the column; and a protectivecovering mounted on the frame having a side covering and a top covering,the protective covering configured to provide an inner atmosphere withinthe protective covering protected from external elements when theprotective covering is secured to the column.

In optional aspects of the weather shelter:

-   -   the frame can also include vertical posts extending upwards from        a backing of the hanging platform;    -   an upper portion of the top covering is configured to secure to        the column and a lower portion of the top covering is configured        to secure to the frame;    -   the top covering can also include a plurality of upper loops        configured to receive an upper strap, wherein the upper strap is        configured to secure the top covering to the column when the        upper strap is tightened;    -   the top covering can also include a plurality of lower loops        configured to receive a lower strap, wherein the lower strap is        configured to secure the top covering to the frame when the        lower strap is tightened;    -   an upper portion of the side covering is configured to secure to        an upper portion of the frame and a lower portion of the side        covering is configured to secure to the column;    -   an upper portion of the side covering can also include a        plurality of upper side loops configured to receive an upper        side strap, wherein the upper side strap is configured to secure        the upper portion of the side covering to the frame when the        upper side strap is tightened;    -   a lower portion of the side covering can also include a        plurality of lower side loops configured to receive a lower side        strap, wherein the lower side strap is configured to secure the        lower portion of the side covering to the column when the lower        side strap is tightened;    -   a bottom portion of the top covering surrounds an upper portion        of the side covering, such that when the bottom portion of the        top covering is secured to the frame, the upper portion of the        side covering is secured to the frame;    -   the side covering can also include hanging straps disposed on an        upper portion of the side covering, the hanging straps        configured to attach to side arms of the frame, such that the        hanging straps provide support for the side covering;    -   the weather shelter can also include an access door disposed on        the wall paneling, the access door configured to provide access        to the inner atmosphere within the protective covering for a        user;    -   the side covering can also include a plurality of door loops        configured to receive a door strap, wherein the door strap is        configured to secure a portion of the side covering above the        access door to the frame or the hanging platform when the door        strap is tightened;    -   the side covering can include a plurality of wall sections        attached together to form the side covering;    -   the side covering can also include zippers attached to the ends        of the wall sections, the zippers configured to attach the        plurality of wall sections together;    -   the top covering can include a plurality of top covering        sections attached together to form the top covering;    -   the top covering can also include zippers attached to the ends        of the top covering sections, the zippers configured to attach        the plurality of top covering sections together;    -   the top covering can include a plumb line access configured to        provide access for a plumb line while maintaining the inner        atmosphere within the weather shelter;    -   the frame is collapsible; and/or    -   the inner atmosphere of the protective covering is adapted to        receive a portable heater or air conditioning.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood with regard to the followingdescription, claims, and accompanying drawings. It is to be noted,however, that the drawings illustrate only several embodiments of theinvention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of theinvention's scope as it can admit to other equally effectiveembodiments.

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the invention

FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B show an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of the invention

FIG. 18 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24A, FIG. 24B, FIG. 24C and FIG. 24D show an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 25A, FIG. 25B and FIG. 25C show an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26A, FIG. 26B and FIG. 26C show an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27A, FIG. 27B and FIG. 27C show an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 28 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 31 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 32 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 33 shows an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B show an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B show an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 36A and FIG. 36B show an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the invention will be described in connection with severalembodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit theinvention to those embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to coverall the alternatives, modifications and equivalence as may be includedwithin the spirit and scope of the invention defined by the appendedclaims.

In certain embodiments, the primary drivers for determining whichcomponents of the ASU could be made remotely can include remotefabrication by inexperienced craft, the transport costs exposure and allthe risks associated with manufacturing in a harsh environment.

In one embodiment, the method and device can be altered or tailored toan individual user's need. For example, the method can includeidentifying a user's requirements for land surface, building sizes,equipment/tooling and utilities which in turn will determine the designand construction requirements, percentage or ratio of the actual overallcolumns and vessels fabrication, schedule and cost. Each of theseModules can be added, combined, or deleted to be adapted to anyproposal, strategies and or combined with any Entity Manufacturing load.

In one embodiment, the Remote Manufacturing Yard (“RMY”) is a mobilesolution for manufacturing of columns that can be used on individualprojects, when needed. The use of the RMY is not applicable for allprojects. For example, the use of the RMY will depend on a certainnumber of factors, a few non-limiting factors could include:

-   -   Site location;    -   Transportation limitations due to infrastructure capacity (most        often bridge capacities or clearances) or limited waterway        access;    -   Economical consideration between transportation and        manufacturing on site;    -   Land and utilities availability locally;    -   Local labor availability and cost; and    -   Project capacity, number and size of column sets;

In one embodiment, the method for fabrication can include variouspacking installations methods. For example, the packing sheets can be(1) inserted directly inside the column shells at the RMY, (2) packagedin segments of 150 mm height and inserted directly inside the columnshells at the RMY, and/or (3) manufactured in blocks (“Frittes”) andinserted directly inside the column shells at the RMY.

In another embodiment, a vertical plate rolling machine can be used forrolling the shells; however, due to size limitations, the methodpreferably includes rolling shells in segments using flux-cored arcwelding (FCAW) in a vertical position for the longitudinal welds. Shellcircumferential welding can also be accomplished using FCAW process in ahorizontal position. This advantageously minimizes joint deformationversus a complete GTAW process and increases overall productivity.

In one embodiment, two stage cores and piping headers for the vaporizerand exchanger will be prefit and supplied in preassemblies usingconventional transport, while the shells and heads will be fabricatedand assembled at the RMY.

FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of remote manufacturing facility 1.In the embodiment shown, remote manufacturing facility 1 includesbuilding one B1 and building two B2 as separate structures; however,those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that theinvention is not so limited. In this embodiment, remote manufacturingfacility 1 includes first structure 2, second structure 4 and outdooryard 10. FIG. 2 provides another perspective view of remotemanufacturing facility 1, which shows various access doors 6, 8 to B1and B2, respectively.

FIG. 3 provides a wide perspective view of building one B1 without firststructure 2 so as to provide a view of the internal stations withinbuilding one B1. Starting from the right side, a delivery truck can beused to deliver plate 22 to building one B1. Each plate 22 is generallyrectangular in shape and can have lengths of about 6 to about 12 meters,thicknesses of about 6 to about 22 millimeters and heights of about 0.5to about 2.5 meters. In one embodiment, plate 22 is made from stainlesssteel material, preferably A240, TP 304/304L or aluminum, preferablyaluminum 5083. After receiving plate 22, plate 22 is moved to platestorage area 20 for storage until needed. Once plate 22 is needed, itcan then be moved to plate rolling area 35 via plate lifting device 30to prep for rolling. Once plate 22 is vertically situated properly ontrolley 24, plate 22 is fed through vertical roller 40 in order to rollplate 22 in a vertical orientation so as to impart a curve and to formhalf course 42. This process is repeated with another plate 22 to createanother half course 42.

The two half courses 42 are then placed on assembly table 50 and matedand welded together using vertical welder 60 to form full course 62. Inone embodiment, the welding is done from both the inside and theoutside. In an optional embodiment, full course 62 can be moved toforming device 55 in order to improve the curvature of full course 62,particularly at the weld locations.

After forming, full course 62 can then be moved to dressing area 70. Inthis area, many items can be installed within and on full course 62 (tobe discussed infra). Scaffolding 72 is erected in and around full course62 to assist, in conjunction with course lifting device 74, withinstallation of the various items within and on full course 62.

Now turning to the left side of FIG. 3, distributor reception table 78receives and stores at least one half of distributor 80. Two halves aremoved onto working table 102 and mated together to form one distributor80. The embodiment shown in FIG. 3 also includes packing fabricationarea 90 for creating packing onsite. In this embodiment, packingfabrication area 90 includes coil holder 92, press module skid 94,washing and cutting skid 96, reception table 98, and transfer table 100.Coil holder 92 feeds continuous metal strips (preferably aluminum) intopress module skid 94 in order to create corrugated packing. From there,the corrugated packing moves to washing and cutting skid 96 to removeoils and other impurities from the corrugated packing, as well as to cutthe corrugated packing into its appropriate strip length. After cutting,the individual packing strips move to reception table 98 where thestrips are organized and grouped together before using transfer table100 to transfer the grouped strips to working table 102 where they arethen put together to form a complete pack.

Bender machine 106 and cutting machine 108 help to create packing band109, which is placed circumferentially around the complete pack in orderto form a complete pack assembly. In certain embodiments, packing band109 includes an adapter that is configured to be picked up by packinglifting device 112. Once the appropriate levels of packing are stacked,packing lifting device 112 moves the packing to packing pallet 114, sothat the packing may be moved to building two B2 for installation withinthe column section. In the embodiment shown, trailer 116 slidesunderneath packing pallet 114 and then raises packing pallet 114 off theground, such that trailer 116 provides full support of the packing.Trailer 116 is then moved to building two B2 via forklift or otherappropriate machine.

FIG. 4 provides a view of an embodiment which includes a plurality ofoverhead cranes 110. In this embodiment, each overhead crane 110 cantraverse a certain point of building one B1; such that the combinedeffect of all overhead cranes 110 is that the entire length of buildingone B1 is covered, thereby allowing for various items and pieces ofequipment to be moved throughout building one B1. Additionally, FIG. 4also depicts movement of the packing from building one B1 using packingpallet 114 and trailer 116.

FIG. 5 provides a wide perspective view of building two B2 withoutsecond structure 4 so as to provide a view of the internal stationswithin building two B2. Starting from the left side, second course 132is brought to column section assembly area 120 and welded to the top offirst course 134 using horizontal welder 130 to form column columnsection 138. In another embodiment, a third course can also be added ifdesired.

In an optional embodiment, column section 138 can then be subjected tonon-destructive testing (not shown) to ensure integrity of the sections.In another optional embodiment, the inner surface of column section 138can be washed 139 to remove oil and other impurities.

Column section 138 is then lifted and placed on moving platform 162,which can be a multi-ton roller platform. Column section 138 is thenmoved to packing and distributor installation area 140, wherein thedistributors and packing from building one B1 are then lifted andinstalled within column section 138 to create packed column section 142.Once the packing and distributor(s) are installed, packed column section142 is then moved from building two B2 to column assembly area 150 inoutside yard 10. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize thatpacking and distributor installation area 140 can be in one area orthere could be a separate area to install distributors and anotherseparate area to install packing. The term packing and distributorinstallation area is intended to cover both alternatives.

Once outside, crane 154 is configured to stack a plurality of packedcolumn sections on top of each other so they can be welded together toform column 156. In the embodiment shown, column 156 can be then movedto a horizontal position, prepped for transport, and then loaded on atruck to be delivered to the final installation area, which ispreferably close in distance.

FIG. 6 provides another perspective view of the storage and loadingarea, as well as the vertical rolling and vertical welding. As shown,plates 22 are removed from the delivery truck and placed in platestorage area 20. When a plate is ready to be rolled, plate 22 is liftedfrom plate storage area 20 by plate lifting device 30 and moved to platerolling area 35. Plate 22 is then placed on two or more trolleys 24before being fed through vertical roller 40 to impart the curvature toform half course 42. Half course 42 is then placed on assembly table 50,mated with second half course 42, and then vertically welded together toform full course 62. In one embodiment, mating can include fitting andtack welding. While the embodiments specifically discussed in referencesto the figures reference a half course, those of ordinary skill in theart will recognize that to create a full course, a plurality of partialcourses can be made and then fitted, tacked and welded together to forma full course. As such, any mention of “half” course or “half shell” isnot intended to be limited to only splitting the course into two partialshells. Rather, the scope of the current invention is intended toinclude the making of, and then welding together, as many partialshells/courses to form a full course.

FIG. 7 provides a perspective view of assembly table 50. In theembodiment shown, assembly table 50 includes central support base 200, aplurality of arms 210, second support member 220 and centering guide230. When installed, each arm 210 is attached to central support base200. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, arm 210 is generally shaped asan I-beam and is detachably attached to central support base 200 (e.g.,remove nuts and bolts). In another embodiment, arms 210 could bepivotally attached to central support base 200, such that when assemblytable 50 is ready to be packed up and transported, the distal end ofeach arm 210 can rotate toward central support base 200 thereby forminga more compact structure and limiting the footprint of assembly table 50during transportation. In embodiments without the pivot connection, eacharm 210 can simply be detached from central support base 200 andtransported accordingly. In one embodiment, central support base 200 canbe bolted to the floor when in use.

When installed, second support member 220 is attached to a distal end ofarms 210 and is configured to raise assembly table 50 off the ground andto provide support for assembly table 50. In one embodiment, secondsupport member 220 is detachably attached to arms 210. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 7, each second support member 220 is generally shaped asan I-beam; however, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat other shapes could be acceptable. In another embodiment, secondsupport member 220 could be pivotally attached to arms 210, such thatwhen assembly table 50 is ready to be packed up and transported, secondsupport member 220 can collapse either toward or away from centralsupport base 200 such that second support member 220 is substantiallyparallel with arms 210, thereby forming a more compact structure andlimiting the footprint of assembly table 50 during transportation. Inone embodiment, second support member 220 has a fixed length. In anotherembodiment, second support member 220 has a length that can be extended.In another embodiment, the length of second support member 220 can beaugmented to provide leveling on uneven surfaces without having to use ashim.

Centering guide 230 is attached, preferably at a location on arms 210that is directly above second support member 220, such that the weightof the two partial shells is directly above second support member 220during welding. In one embodiment, centering guides 230 can be welded toarms 210. In another embodiment, each centering guide 230 can be movablyconnected to each arm 210, for example slidably), such that centeringguide 230 can move about the length of arm 210, thereby accommodatingpartial shells of varying diameters. In one embodiment, centering guides230 are made of stainless steel, preferably stainless steel 304 and areconfigured to have a tapered opening such that each partial shell can bemore easily guided into position.

In one embodiment, centering guide 230 can be comprised of two separatepieces, although those of ordinary skill in the art will understand itis not so limited. In one embodiment, the gap formed in the opening isslightly larger than the thickness of the partial shell, such that thecentering guide is not in contact with one or both sides of the partialshell. In one embodiment, the partial shell can be locked into place byinstalling a spacer (e.g., a shim) of a known thickness in between oneof the spaces of the centering guide and the partial shell, and thenusing a second spacer on the opposing side of the partial shell to applyan opposing force to the partial shell, thereby moving the partial shellto the correct location. This allows for the partial shell to be setinto a known inner diameter position.

FIG. 8 depicts a side view of inner scaffolding 73 and outer scaffolding75 being attached to assembly table 50 with full course 62 removed forease of view. In this embodiment, main post 232 is connected to secondsupport member 220 via secondary scaffolding support 234. Extendible arm236 is attached near a top portion of main post 232 and is supported bytertiary scaffolding support 238. Secondary post 240 can be attached totertiary scaffolding support 238 and extend upwards. Secondary post 240can have links 242 which are configured to provide support for handrailsor other similar safety device. Extendible arm 236 extends towards fullcourse 62 in order to provide support for a walkway (not shown) whichlays on top of extendible arm 236, and is configured to support at leastone person, thereby giving said person access to both the inner andouter surfaces of full course 62.

In one embodiment, scaffolding 72 can already be erected and attached toassembly table 50 before full course 62 is dropped into place. In oneembodiment, extendible arm 236 is in a retracted position before fullcourse 62 is in place to allow for more freedom of movement in gettingfull course 62 onto assembly table 50. Once full course 62 is in place,extendible arm 236 can be extended and locked into position.

FIG. 9 depicts a top view of scaffolding 72. In the embodiment shown,full course 62 is not yet in place and assembly table 50 is not includedfor clarity. As shown, scaffolding 72 includes outer scaffolding 75 andinner scaffolding 73. In the embodiment shown, full course 62 would beplaced roughly half way between outer scaffolding 75 and innerscaffolding 73. Additionally, in the embodiment shown, the space betweenthe outer scaffolding 75 and full course 62 is currently empty. However,a substantial amount of this area will be filled in with temporary outerscaffolding once full course 62 is on assembly table 50 and extendiblearm 236 is extended. Similarly, space between the inner scaffolding 73and full course 62 is currently empty. However, a substantial amount ofthis area will be filled in with temporary inner scaffolding once fullcourse 62 is on assembly table 50 and extendible arm 236 is extended.

FIG. 10 provides a zoomed in perspective view of a portion of fullcourse 62 with outer scaffolding 75. In the embodiment shown, a smallgap G will exist between the end of extendible arm 236 when it isextended and full course 62. In a preferred embodiment, the gap is lessthan two inches. The purpose of the gap is to allow for enough room tomove the course in or out of the scaffolding without having to dismantlethe entire scaffolding. In the embodiment shown, outer walkway 82 isalready in place; however, the temporary outer walkway has not be laiddown, which is why there is a blank area BA between full course 62 andouter scaffolding 75. By having this blank area BA, scaffolding 75 canremain in place when the fully dressed full course 62 is moved away fromthe dressing area (i.e., a shell having roundness ring and lifting lugsinstalled). In one embodiment, outer walkway 75 can be selected fromsteel, wood planks, other metallic walkways, or the like.

FIG. 11 provides a side view of course lifting device 74. In theembodiment shown, course lifting device 74 includes four support arms79, with each having plate clamp 76 attached thereto. In situationswhere the user will likely produce shells of differing diameters, courselifting device 74 can include means for diameter adjustment 77. In theembodiment shown, this includes a plate with a plurality of holesdisposed about the plate. Plate clamp 76 can be attached to one of theholes by any suitable connection, for example a Crosby shackle, acarabineer, or the like. Various means for adjustment can include asliding hook, that is configured to slide about the length of the armand lock into place.

FIG. 12 provides a side view of the full course 62 during the dressingstep. As shown, full course 62 was placed in dressing area 70 usingcourse lifting device 74. Scaffolding 72 is already set up and providesaccess for a worker to install roundness ring 250, as well as otherpieces of equipment to the outer surface of full course 62. During thisstep, roundness ring 250 is placed around the circumference of fullcourse 62. A plurality of lifting lugs 252 are attached to roundnessring 250. Lifting lugs 252 allow for packed column section 142 (FIG. 5)to be picked up by the crane. As noted previously, the temporary outerscaffolding can be advantageously removed to allow for full course 62 tobe removed from the dressing area even with roundness ring 250 in place.In normal production facilities, packed column section 142 is movedaround using trunnions that are welded to the packed column section 142.Advantageously, using the lifting lug in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention allow for a reduced height requirement forlifting, which allows for a lower building height. Certain embodimentsof the present invention also require less welding and result in lessplate deformation. Additionally, the roundness ring can cause issueswith access to the trunnions, making them impracticable when a roundnessring is present.

In certain embodiment for shells that will become an upper course (i.e.,the top shell of a column section), clips 253 are added to the outersurface of full course 62 in order to provide support for a hangingplatform in order to give a user access to the top of the column sectionwhen installing the distributor and/or packing. FIG. 28 provides a sideview of second course 132 with clips 253 added to its outer surface.FIG. 29 provides a close-up isometric view of one embodiment of clip253. In this embodiment, clip 253 is generally v-shaped; however, it isnot intended to be so limited. It is preferred that clip 253 beconfigured such that when clip 253 is secured to the outer surface ofsecond course 132, clip 253 is operable to support the weight of hangingplatform 254. In one embodiment, clips 253 can be welded onto the outersurface of second course 132. In an additional embodiment, clips 253 canbe welded to either a reinforcement band 251 or clip pads (not shown)instead of being welded directly to the outer surface. For purposes ofthis application, the phrase clips being secured to the outer surface ismeant to encompass all of the above alternatives. Reinforcement band 251or clip pads can be welded to the outer surface of second course 132.Both of these options help to distribute the force applied by the clipsto the outer surface of the second course 132, thereby improving itsintegrity.

In one embodiment, hanging platform 254 includes adapter 255, foot pad256, walkway 257, backing 258, angled post 259, and vertical post 261.Adapter 255 is configured to mate with clip 253, which results in aforce pulling hanging platform 254 toward second course 132 wheneverweight is applied to walkway 257. Footpad 256 can be located at a distalend of angled post 259 and when in use, rests against the side of secondcourse 132. Footpad 256 is configured to disperse the weight of hangingplatform 254 against second course 132 without damaging second course132. In an additional embodiment, hanging platform 254 can also includea vertical extension (not shown) for supporting a roof. In oneembodiment, the vertical extension can attach to backing 258, or it canalready be incorporated within backing 258 and simply be extended frombacking 258. In an additional embodiment, the vertical extension canhave a plurality of arms extending out from the vertical extension, suchthat the plurality of arms are configured to support an external weathershelter that can be used for protection from the environment after thepacked course has been moved outside. FIGS. 34-36 provide various viewsof an embodiment of the external weather shelter.

FIG. 13 a provides an isometric view of the dressing step. In theembodiment shown, shims 260 can be provided such that roundness ring 250can accommodate various course thicknesses. In the embodiment shown,shims 260 are generally L-shaped. Also shown in FIG. 13 a arereinforcement pads 262. Reinforcement pads 262 are attached to the outersurface of course, preferably by welding. Reinforcement pads 262 aredisposed between the course and lifting lug 252 and help to preventtearing of the course when the course is lifted via lifting lug 252.Roundness ring 250 can preferably be dismantled, such that it can beremoved at a later point in time. FIG. 13B provides a close up view oflifting lug 252 and reinforcement pad 262.

FIG. 14 provides an isometric view of packing fabrication area 90. Inthe embodiment shown, both press module skid 94 and washing and cuttingskid 96 are provided on skids, which advantageously allows for bothpress module skid 94 and washing and cutting skid 96 to be shipped aswhole pieces of equipment, and to be at the proper height when inoperation. This is an added advantage of certain embodiments of theinvention since the flooring in the remote manufacturing locations isnot typically a flat and even surface such as in a typical fabricationfacility. In certain embodiments, the skids of press module skid 94 andwashing and cutting skid 96 are configured to allow for leveling inorder to adapt for differences in floor evenness. Additionally, skiddingallows for time savings during installation, dismantling, and shipping.Skids also allow for easier shipping in containers.

FIG. 15 provides an isometric view of washing and cutting skid 96. Inthis embodiment, skid support beams 270 help to provide support andstructure for the skid. In a preferred embodiment, washing and cuttingskid 96 is manufactured in a local manufacturing facility and theninserted into an appropriate shipping container for transport to theremote manufacturing yard. At location, skid support beams 270 can bemaintained or removed depending on the circumstances. As such, washingand cutting skid 96 is configured to be operable with or without skidsupport beams 270. Additionally, skidding allows for time savings duringinstallation, dismantling, and shipping. Skids also allow for easiershipping in containers.

FIG. 16 provides an isometric view of press module skid 94. In thisembodiment, skid support beams 272 help to provide support and structurefor the skid. In a preferred embodiment, press module skid 94 ismanufactured in a local manufacturing facility and then inserted into anappropriate shipping container or shipped without a container fortransport to the remote manufacturing yard. In a preferred embodiment,skid support beams 272 are left in tact during operation. Press moduleskid 94 also can include walls 274, which help to provide an enclosurefor press module skid 94 and reduce some of the noise associated withoperation of press module skid 94. Press module skid 94 can also includeaccess door 276 and strip input 278 and strip output (not shown).

FIG. 17 provides another close up isometric view of an embodiment wherepacking fabrication area 90 includes two press module skids 94 andwashing and cutting skids 96. Two halves of a distributor are moved ontodistributor working table 103 and mated together to form one distributor80. The embodiment shown in FIG. 17 also includes more than one packingfabrication area 90 for creating packing onsite. In this embodiment,each packing fabrication area 90 includes coil holder 92, press moduleskid 94, washing and cutting skid 96, reception table 98, and transfertable 100. Coil holder 92 feeds continuous metal strips (preferablyaluminum) into press module skid 94 in order to create corrugatedpacking. From there, the corrugated packing moves to washing and cuttingskid 96 to remove oils and other impurities from the corrugated packing,as well as to cut the corrugated packing into its appropriate striplength. After cutting, the packing strips move to reception table 98where the strips are organized and grouped together before usingtransfer table 100 to transfer the grouped strips to working table 102where they are then placed together to form packing assembly 101.

FIG. 18 provides an isometric view of packing lifting device 112. In theembodiment shown, packing lifting device 112 includes a plurality oflifting arms 300 extending outward from central member 304 and connectorclips 302 disposed on each lifting arm 300. Packing lifting device 112is configured to lift a complete packing assembly 101 using connectorclips 302 in conjunction with the adapter from packing band 109 andstack the packing assembly 101 onto another packing assembly 101.Preferably, packing lifting device 112 moves packing assembly ontopacking pallet 114 so that a plurality of packing assemblies may bemoved to building two B2 for installation or storage. In one embodiment,packing lifting device 112 is configured such that lifting arms 300 canbe detached from packing lifting device 112 in order to allow for asmaller, more transportable footprint. Other options could includelifting arms 300 that rotate and lock into an open and closed position,which would also result in a smaller footprint. In one embodiment,packing lifting device 112 is configured to be lifted using overheadcrane 110 via lifting point 306.

FIG. 19 provides a close-up isometric view of packing pallet 114 andtrailer 116 without any packing loaded onto packing pallet 114. In theembodiment shown, packing pallet 114 includes pallet support legs 111and packing support structure 113. In one embodiment, packing supportstructure 113 is configured to be able to support the weight of packing,which can be in excess of 34,000 lbs. Support legs 111 not only providesupport for packing pallet 114, but they also advantageously raisepacking support structure 113 off the ground, which allows for trailer116 to be placed underneath packing pallet 114. When packing pallet 114is ready to be moved, trailer 116 can be slid underneath packing pallet114 until lifting members 115 are directly underneath packing supportstructure 113, such that lifting members 115 can be extended, therebylifting packing pallet 114 off the ground. Trailer 116 can then be movedusing any acceptable machinery, for example, a forklift.

FIG. 20 provides a close-up isometric view of column section assemblyarea 120. Second course 132 is brought to column section assembly area120 and welded to the top of first course 134 using horizontal welder130 to form a column section. In another embodiment (not shown), a thirdcourse can also be added if desired. In the embodiment shown, innerscaffolding (not shown) and outer scaffolding 75 are installed such thata user can walk along the inner and outer circumference while horizontalwelder 130 is in operation. In one embodiment, automatic flux cored arcwelding is used. Horizontal welders are generally known in the art;however, in certain embodiments of the invention, horizontal welder 130is configured for flux cored arc welding instead of submerged arcwelding (as is typically done for horizontal welders known heretofore),and is additionally configured to weld smaller diameters than typical,since horizontal welders are typically used for large storage tanks forrefineries having diameters of the order of 40 meters. In anotherembodiment, a separate horizontal welder 130 is used for inside andoutside welding.

In certain embodiments, a backing strip is not used when making thewelds. This is because backing strips can cause an accumulation ofliquid oxygen and/or hydrocarbons in the area between the backing andthe course, which can result in a possible fire hazard. However, incertain embodiments, space on the inside of the course is at a premium,which prevents a user from being on the inside of the course duringwelding. For example, for certain courses that will enclose the mainvaporizer, there can be instances when space does not allow for a userto be inside during welding, such that a backing strip can be used.However, as noted above, the use of a backing strip can lead to possiblesafety issues.

In order to reduce the risk associated with liquid build-up, drainageholes can be drilled into the backing strip prior to installation. Inone embodiment, holes can be drilled at various locations, for exampleevery two meters of back strip. In another embodiment, the location ofeach drainage hole can be at a point that will be above thecircumferential weld, such that any liquid that falls between thebacking strip and the course will be able to travel through the drainageholes. If the entire hole were below the circumferential weld, then theliquid would not be able to drain from behind the backing strip andbecome trapped. As such, it is preferable to have drainage holes locatedon the backing strips in a proper location such that the drainage holesare configured to allow drainage of any trapped liquid during operation.Drainage holes can be round, oblong, or any other shape that allows fordrainage of the liquid.

FIG. 21 provides a close-up isometric view of optional cleaning station320. In the embodiment shown, a user can be raised and lowered withincolumn section 138 via scissor lift 322 such that user can wash theinside of the welded column sections to remove oil and/or debris. Incertain embodiments, welded column sections are raised up off the floorvia cleaning station support 324, which gives user access to the insideand outside the welded column sections.

FIG. 22 provides an elevation view of packing and distributorinstallation area 140, wherein the packing and distributors frombuilding one B1 are then lifted and installed within column section 138using packing installation device 141. In one embodiment, distributor 80is installed first with packing assembly 101 being installed on top ofdistributor 80. In one embodiment, packing installation device 141 caninclude cage 143 and adapter ring plate 145. Cage 143 is securelyattached to adapter ring plate 145. Adapter ring plate 145 can have alocking mechanism that is configured to engage with adapter 147 therebytransferring a lifting force to packing assembly 101.

In certain embodiments, the packing can be installed band by band, as anassembly (i.e., the entire circle), or in portions. When in portions,the packing would arrive in boxes, a worker would enter the inside ofcolumn section 138, the boxes would be lowered into column section 138and the worker would then remove the portions from the box and manuallyfill in the area until completed. Once the packing and distributor(s)are installed, the packed column section is then moved from building twoB2 to outdoor yard 10.

FIG. 23 provides one embodiment for moving the packed column sectionsfrom building two B2 to the outside yard. In this embodiment, winch 160is used to move packed column section 142. Packed column section 142 islocated on top of movable platform 162, with movable platform 162 beingconfigured to support the weight of the packed column section 142.Additionally, movable platform 162 is configured to be attached to acable from winch 160, such that winch 160 can cause movable platform 162to progress towards winch 160. In one embodiment, movable platform 162can include a plurality of multi-ton rollers (340 in FIG. 24) which areadapted to mate with a set of rails 166 disposed on the ground such thatrails 166 help to guide movable platform 162 towards winch 160 withoutmovable platform 162 drifting left or right. In one embodiment, winch160 is secured to the ground or flooring. Rails 166 can be located ontop of the ground, or they can be recessed in the ground, such that theflooring has a generally flat surface.

FIGS. 24 a-d provides an embodiment of multi-ton roller 340. In theembodiment shown, multi-ton roller 340 includes a set of roller guides342, which are configured to mate with rails 166. While multi-tonrollers are generally well known and can be purchased from Hilman Inc,certain embodiments of the invention use multi-ton rollers that havebeen adapted such that they are configured to mate with rails 166 viaguides 342 and can be attached to movable platform 162 via top plate370. In one embodiment, multi-ton roller 340 can include body frame 372,top plate 370 secured to body frame 372, a plurality of individualrollers 374 movable about load-bearing member 376 and located withinbody frame 372, wherein rollers 374 are configured to support body frame372 and facilitate longitudinal movement of body frame 372 along thelength of rail 166. Guides 342 help to prevent lateral movement of themulti-ton roller during movement along rail 166.

FIG. 25 a, FIG. 25 b, and FIG. 25 c provide top views of movableplatform 162 in various configurations. In the embodiments shown,movable platform 162 includes base frame 170, movable beam 172, andtable posts 174. As shown by the arrows, movable beam 172 can be movedabout base frame 170, such that movable platform 162 can accommodatesupport bases 180 of different diameters, which allows movable platform162 to be highly adaptable for different column section diameters. Inone embodiment, table posts 174 extend upward (i.e., out of the paper)such that the packed column section is elevated from the ground, therebyallowing a user access to the underside of the packed column section. Inone embodiment, support base 180 has a washer-like shape, such thatsupport base 180 has an outer and inner circumference and a height. Inanother embodiment, table posts 174 are configured to mate with notchesin support base 180. This advantageously helps to stabilize support base180 on top of movable platform 162, particularly when being moved or inthe event of severe wind. In certain embodiments, support base 180 ismade from structural carbon steel. Support base 180 helps to distributethe weight of packed column section 142 more evenly, and thereby reducethe risk of damage to the shell of packed column section 142. In certainembodiments, packed column section 142 can be secured to support base180, preferably using welding stiffener. However, those of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize that the shape can be any that willallow for placement of a packed column section and provide the neededsupport, such as a nut, hexagon, octagon, etc. . . . as non-limitingexamples.

In one embodiment, the portion of the column that will house the mainvaporizer at the bottom of the low pressure column can be placed onmovable platform 162 without using support base 180 duringtransportation from building two B2 to column assembly area 150.

FIG. 26 a provides a top view of yard leveling base 185 and FIG. 26 bprovides a side view of yard leveling base 185. Yard leveling base 185can be used to assist with creating a level surface for which to stackcolumn 156 on top. In normal manufacturing facilities, yard levelingbase 185 would not normally be used as the flooring of the permanentshops is made to be level. However, there will be certain situationsencountered where the floor of outdoor yard 10 of remote manufacturingfacility 10 will not be substantially level. In these cases, a certainamount of variance in leveling could cause uneven stresses on column156, and ultimately lead to either unsafe conditions and/or an off-speccolumn. Therefore, yard leveling base 185 can be used to alleviate someof these problems. In the embodiment shown, yard leveling base 185 has awasher-like shape, such that yard leveling base 185 has an outer andinner circumference, and a height. However, those of ordinary skill inthe art will recognize that the shape can be any that will allow forplacement of a packed column section and provide the needed support,such as a nut, hexagon, octagon, etc. . . . as non-limiting examples. Incertain embodiments, the entire circumference does not have to beresting directly on a surface; however, it is preferred to have as muchof the bottom circumference resting on a surface in order to minimizedeformations of the shell due to the weight.

In one embodiment, yard leveling base 185 includes a plurality ofnotches 186 spaced about the circumference that are configured to allowfor lifting system 192 to be placed within notches 186 and raise thelevel of that area, such that leveling can be achieved. In oneembodiment, lifting system 192 can be selected from the group consistingof a hydraulic lift, a screw lift, an air lift, and combinationsthereof. A jack would be an example of a hydraulic lift. In oneembodiment, yard leveling base 185 can accommodate a weight of about 100metric tons. In one embodiment, shims 188 can be installed at a locationnear notches 186 and underneath yard leveling base 185 after beingraised in order to maintain the leveling after the jack is removed. Inone embodiment, a clamp system can be used to secure yard leveling base185 to the ground. In one embodiment, anchor bolts or their mechanicalequivalents can be used. In one embodiment, a plumb line can be used toassist with leveling. In one embodiment, a plumb line is attached to anupper portion of packed column section and the plumb line is allowed tohang freely. The distance of the plumb line from the top of the packedcolumn is a known value, and the yard leveling base is adjusted untilthe measured distance of the plumb line near the bottom of the packedcolumn matches the known distance.

FIG. 27 includes several views of one embodiment of trolley 24. In theembodiment shown, trolley 24 has support body 25, lifting arm 26, plateholder 27, pump handle 28, and wheels 29. In one embodiment, plateholder 27 is rotatably attached, via a support bracket, to lifting arm26 such that when lifting arm 26 moves between its lowermost anduppermost position, plate holder 27 rotates relative to lifting arm 26thereby keeping any plate 22 being held by plate holder 27 in asubstantially vertical position. Pump handle 28 is configured to causelifting arm 26 to move, which, in one embodiment, is similar to a pumpjack. Support body 25 provides support for trolley 24. In oneembodiment, wheels 29 are connected to support body 25. Wheels 29 arepreferably a heavy duty kingpin style caster. Plate holder 27 isconfigured to receive plate 22, secure plate 22 in place, and thensubsequently release its grip on plate 22 so that plate 22 can beremoved from trolley 24 following rolling. In one embodiment, plateholder 27 includes toggle clamp 31, plate clamp 32, and clamp mountinghex nut 33. Toggle clamp 31 is configured to provide course adjustmentto plate clamp 32 and clamp mounting hex nut 33 provides more fineadjustment. In order to lock plate clamp 32 into place, clamp mountinghex nut 33 is turned to adjust the set position of plate clamp 32 andtoggle clamp 31 is then moved to cause plate clamp 32 to move towardplate 22 and hold plate 22 firmly in place.

In embodiments in which the remote manufacturing facility will notproduce its own packing onsite, the packing can be manufactured in anormal manufacturing facility. In instances where the diameter of thecolumn is small enough, the packing can be broken up into sections andplaced in a corresponding box for shipment. As shown in FIG. 30, anentire level of packing can be transported in eight different boxes.Each box 400 is specifically configured to hold a certain portion of thepacking. In the embodiment shown, the box has supports 402 built intothe box in order to keep the packing in place and protected duringshipment.

There could be instances where the diameter of the packing is too longfor shipment, and the packing cannot be made onsite at the remotemanufacturing facility. Additionally, in embodiments in which thepacking is installed in the column section by box loading, boxes havingthe packing strips near the middle will be too large to place within thecolumn section. FIG. 31 provides a solution to this problem. In thisembodiment, the length of the shipping box for certain portions of thepacking is actually less than the length of the strips to be placed inthe box (and therefore smaller than the diameter of the column section).In order to accommodate the extra length of the strip, the box containscurved supports 404 that cause the strip to form a wave, whicheffectively shortens the strips apparent length, thereby allowing stripsthat would normally be too large for the box to be shipped in a box thatis properly sized for transit, and in certain embodiments, placementwithin the column section during installation.

In certain embodiments, shipping costs can be further reduced byarranging the individual packing strips in a particular way within theboxes. When packing strips are usually installed in boxes, the packingstrips are generally oriented the same way as they would be wheninstalled within the column. However, certain embodiments of theinvention can include the step of rotating/flipping every other packingstrip 180 degrees such that the profiles of successive packing stripsare now matched up with each other. FIG. 32 provides an example. Asshown during installation, first packing strip A and second packingstrip B have offsetting profiles. While this profile setup isadvantageous during operation, it can be wasteful during shipment. Asshown, the resulting height H_(I) during installation of two packingstrips A,B is h_(A)+h_(B).

However, in the embodiment shown, after packing strip A is flipped 180degrees, its profile matches the profile of packing strip B. Therefore,when the packing strips are placed on top of each other, the overallheight during shipping H_(S) can be reduced since the height of packingstrip B is eliminated and only the thickness of B contributes to theoverall height of the two packing strips. In typical packing, the heightof each packing strip is substantially greater than the thickness of thematerial, and therefore, a substantial savings in space can be achievedin certain embodiments of the invention.

For embodiments in which vaporizer 350 is manufactured in a normalmanufacturing facility (i.e., not at the remote manufacturing facility)and is too big to transport, main vaporizer 350 can be fullymanufactured and then cut into at least two sections: lower stage 352and upper stage 354. In one embodiment, all the work for both lowerstage 352 and upper stage 354 can be fully finished in the normalmanufacturing facility with the exception that certain process lines andtransition joint (TJ) between aluminum and stainless steel can be fullyfinished in the normal manufacturing facility and delivered to theremote site as one component, with subsequent welding at the remotesite. Advantageously, certain embodiments of the invention allow for acondenser that would normally be too large to be transported, to beshipped to the remote site, while also maintaining the highestproduction standards.

FIG. 33 provides an embodiment of the invention in which main vaporizer350 is installed at the remote site. In the embodiment shown, (startingfrom the right side) lower stage 352 (two set of four core assembly) isinstalled first and fit and welded to bottom head. Course lifting device74 then brings first course 356 (e.g. full course 62) and lowers firstcourse 356 over and around lower stage 352. Second course 358 is thenbrought and fitted and welded to the top of first course 356. Upperstage 354 (two set of 4 core assembly) is then installed to top of lowerstage 352. Two more courses 360 and 362 can then be fit and weldedappropriately such that main vaporizer 350 is now enclosed within acolumn section. In another embodiment, a column section (e.g., two ormore courses already welded together) can be installed, as opposed toinstalling one course at a time.

FIG. 34 a provides a side cut out view of weather shelter 500 while FIG.34 b provides a top view of weather shelter 500. Hanging platform 254 isattached to packed column section 142 and hanging platform 254 alsohelps to provide structural support for weather shelter 500. Frame 502can attach to hanging platform 254, and preferably extends upwards fromhanging platform 254 such that frame 502 is operable to provide supportfor weather shelter 500 at a height exceeding the height of hangingplatform 254. In the embodiment shown, weather shelter 500 includesprotective covering 510 that is mounted on the frame. In one embodiment,protective covering 510 has side covering 520 and top covering 530. Whenprotective covering 510 is fully engaged with packed column section 142,inner atmosphere 514 within protective covering 510 is formed, therebyallowing a user to work on the packed column section without beingsubjected to external weather conditions (e.g., rain, snow, humidity,low or high temperatures, dust, etc. . . . ). In one embodiment, sidecovering 510 can include access door 540, which provides access for auser to inner atmosphere 514.

Movable stairs 550 provide access to weather shelter 500. FIG. 34 b alsoshows rails 166 and centering guide rail 167, which can be used to mountwinch (not shown). This top view also shows four plumb line accesspoints 512, wherein a plumb line can be hung from the top of the packedcolumn section, go through weather shelter 500 and then dangle at thebottom of the packed column section, to be used for assisting withleveling.

FIG. 35 a and FIG. 35 b provide a more detailed side view of sidecovering 520. In the embodiment shown, side covering can include aplurality of wall sections 521 a, 521 b. FIG. 35 a shows the wallsections put together and FIG. 35 b shows the wall sections apart. Sidecovering 520 includes a plurality of upper straps 522, which areconfigured to attach to a portion of the frame, thereby providingadditional support for side covering 520. Side covering 520 can alsocontain a plurality of door loops 524. In function, door loops 524 canbe similar to belt loops on a pair of pants. In the embodiment shown, adoor strap can be inserted into door loops 524 and tightened, forexample with a ratchet tightening system, thereby providing a tighterseal. As such, the door strap functions similarly as a belt.

In the embodiment shown, wall sections 521 a, 521 b can be attached toeach other via zipper connections 526. In another embodiment, sidecovering 520 can also contain a plurality of lower side loops 528configured to receive a lower side strap, wherein the lower side strapis configured to secure the lower portion of side covering 520 to thepacked column section 142 when the lower side strap is tightened.

FIG. 36 a provides a top view of disassembled top covering 530 and FIG.36 b provides a partial side view of an assembled top covering 530. Inthe embodiment shown, top covering 530 includes a plurality of upperloops 532 configured to receive an upper strap, wherein the upper strapis configured to secure the top covering to the column when the upperstrap is tightened. Top covering 530 can also include a plurality oflower loops 534 configured to receive a lower strap, wherein the lowerstrap is configured to secure the top covering to the frame when thelower strap is tightened.

In one embodiment, a bottom portion of the top covering surrounds anupper portion of the side covering, such that when the bottom portion ofthe top covering is secured to the frame, the upper portion of the sidecovering is secured to the frame. In one embodiment, top covering 530can include a plurality of top covering sections attached together toform top covering 530. In another embodiment, top covering 530 can alsoinclude zippers 536 attached to the ends of the top covering sections,the zippers configured to attach the plurality of top covering sectionstogether. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize thatembodiments of the invention provide an innovative approach andeffective strategy for solving the current limitations of today'stechnology. Certain embodiments of the invention help to providemanufacturing flexibility and reactivity by allowing additionalcapacities to current manufacturing techniques; serve all parts of theworld, particularly those that are landlocked; reduce the need foroversized transportation equipment; and provide manufacturingcapabilities to areas in high growth markets that do not currently havethe necessary infrastructure for large transportation equipment.

While the invention has been described in conjunction with specificembodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives,modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in theart in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intendedto embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fallwithin the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. The presentinvention may suitably comprise, consist or consist essentially of theelements disclosed and may be practiced in the absence of an element notdisclosed. Furthermore, language referring to order, such as first andsecond, should be understood in an exemplary sense and not in a limitingsense. For example, it can be recognized by those skilled in the artthat certain steps can be combined into a single step.

The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents, unlessthe context clearly dictates otherwise.

Optional or optionally means that the subsequently described event orcircumstances may or may not occur. The description includes instanceswhere the event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does notoccur.

Ranges may be expressed herein as from about one particular value,and/or to about another particular value. When such a range isexpressed, it is to be understood that another embodiment is from theone particular value and/or to the other particular value, along withall combinations within said range.

We claim:
 1. A system for distributing the weight of a column sectionduring lifting by a crane, the system comprising: a roundness ringdisposed about an outer circumference of the column section, theroundness ring configured to provide support to the column section suchthat the column section maintains a substantially cylindrical shapeduring movement of the column section; a plurality of shims configuredto be wedged between the roundness ring and the outer circumference ofthe column section to improve the fit between the roundness ring and thecolumn section; and a plurality of lifting lugs, wherein the lifting lugis configured to receive a lifting force from the crane and transferthis lifting force to the roundness ring.
 2. The system as claimed inclaim 1 further comprising a plurality of reinforcement pads, whereineach reinforcement pad is attached to the outer surface of the columnsection, wherein at least a portion of the lifting lug is attached tothe reinforcement pad.
 3. The system as claimed in claim 2, wherein thereinforcement pad is configured to prevent shearing of the columnsection during lifting.
 4. The system as claimed in claim 2, wherein thereinforcement pad is attached to the column section by welding.
 5. Thesystem as claimed in claim 2, wherein the reinforcement pad is disposedabove and below the roundness ring.
 6. The system as claimed in claim 2,wherein the reinforcement pad is disposed only below the roundness ring.7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each lifting lug isattached to the roundness ring.
 8. The system as claimed in claim 1,wherein the roundness ring is configured to be dismantled, such that theroundness ring can be removed from the column section and reused for asecond column section.
 9. The system as claimed in claim 1 wherein theroundness ring is comprised of multiple segments bolted together. 10.The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the shims are generallyL-shaped.
 11. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the shims areconfigured to have different widths such that the shims are adapted fordifferent shell thicknesses.
 12. The system as claimed in claim 1,wherein each lifting lug comprises an opening that is configured toreceive the lifting force from the crane.
 13. The system as claimed inclaim 1, wherein each lifting lug is bolted to the roundness ring. 14.The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of lifting lugsare spaced evenly about the roundness ring.
 15. The system as claimed inclaim 1, wherein each lifting lug comprises a top body and a bottombody, the top body configured to be disposed above the roundness ring,the bottom body configured to be disposed below the roundness ring,wherein the lifting lug is configured to be secured to the roundnessring by bolting the top body to the bottom body.
 16. The system asclaimed in claim 15, wherein the top body of the lifting lug isconfigured to be removed from the roundness ring without removal of thebottom body.
 17. The system as claimed in claim 15, further comprisingan upper portion extending from the top body of the lifting lug, theupper portion having a substantially semi-circular shape at the top, theupper portion having a reinforced opening configured to receive thelifting force from the crane.
 18. The system as claimed in claim 17,wherein the reinforced opening is configured to be operably connectedwith a Crosby shackle.